High Heels, High Hopes! Kinky Boots Struts into Newcastle
- Liane Morris
- Nov 7
- 8 min read
Step into a world of high heels, high hopes, and higher spirits this December, when Newcastle’s Chookas Entertainment presents the Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots at the Civic Theatre. From 18 to 21 December, audiences will be swept up in a feel-good celebration of self-expression, courage, and community, perfectly timed for the festive season.
Kinky Boots began as a 2005 film based on the true story of a small Northampton shoe factory that found new life producing bespoke boots for drag performers. It charmed audiences around the world and in 2013, the story took to the Broadway stage, reimagined as a high-energy musical.
With songs by pop icon Cyndi Lauper in her first foray into musical theatre and a script by acclaimed playwright Harvey Fierstein, Kinky Boots became an instant sensation. It went on to win six Tony Awards, a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album and three Olivier Awards.
“Kinky Boots is more than just a musical. It’s a message of love, acceptance, and the power of being unapologetically yourself,” says Jody Miller, Chookas Entertainment’s Producer. “We are thrilled to bring this story to life in Newcastle – it’s a show with a whole lot of heart, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic.”
Kinky Boots tells the uplifting story of Charlie Price, a young man who inherits his father’s struggling shoe factory. When he meets Lola, a fabulous drag performer with a flair for fashion and an eye for opportunity who’s also in need of sturdy stilettos, their unlikely partnership gives rise to a bold new business. Together, they set out to create a line of sturdy stilettos for men and, in doing so, find the courage to step out of the shadows and embrace who they truly are.
This production is a landmark moment for Chookas Entertainment, marking the company’s debut production on the Civic’s main stage and their biggest show to date. For Producer Jody Miller, it’s a thrilling leap that represents years of hard work, risk, and belief in the power of community theatre to inspire and connect.
Over the past five years, Chookas has staged 18 productions, including Legally Blonde, Heathers, Chicago, Annie, and Be More Chill. The company’s reputation for excellence and for providing opportunities to performers at all stages of their careers has made Chookas a vital part of the local theatre ecosystem.
“This is the first time we’ve mounted a production on the main stage at the Civic Theatre,” Jody says. “Our shows at the Playhouse have all but sold out, so this feels like a natural next step.”
The decision to take on Kinky Boots came down to both heart and strategy.
“We wanted to do something different, something that felt right for Chookas. Kinky Boots ticks every box, it’s diverse, inclusive, fun, and filled with joy. Who else in Newcastle would do Kinky Boots? It’s the perfect fit for us.”
For Jody, the production is also a balancing act between creativity and family life.
“Our daughter, Felicity, is 17 months old, and I’m on maternity leave, so it didn’t make sense to do six productions a year like we used to. Instead, we decided to go big, one huge show that really makes an impact.”
“With 40% of tickets already sold, we’ve already got office Christmas parties booking in. It’s ideal for the festive season - it’s just great fun; the kind of show that makes people leave the theatre smiling.”
At the helm of Kinky Boots is an exceptional creative team, bringing together some of Newcastle’s most talented theatre professionals. Director Maddie Watts and Music Director Luke Baker lead the charge, guiding a dynamic cast through a production that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and high-heeled. They are joined by Assistant Director Theo Williams, a Newcastle entertainer currently performing in the national tour of RENT the musical. Choreography is led by Caitlin Maher and Jody Miller.
Maddie Watts is no stranger to the Hunter’s performing arts scene. A Newcastle-based director, vocal coach, and educator with over a decade of industry experience, Maddie holds a Bachelor of Music (Voice) from the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and a Diploma of Musical Theatre from Brent Street. Over the past eight years, Maddie has directed, choreographed, and musically directed a diverse range of productions across the region, from The SpongeBob Musical and Into the Woods to A Chorus Line, Legally Blonde, and Annie.
“I’ve always been drawn to productions that celebrate individuality and connection,” Maddie says. “That’s the heartbeat of Kinky Boots."
"It’s a story that tells people it’s okay to be different, to be bold, and to own who you are."
Maddie’s passion for youth and community theatre has shaped her as both an educator and an artist. Having taught voice and musical theatre for over 11 years, she continues to nurture emerging talent across the region. And with Kinky Boots having a cast of 40, ranging in ages from 11 right through to mid-50s, her experience allows her to guide performers of all levels with patience, insight, and a deep understanding of how to bring out each individual’s best while weaving them seamlessly into the story.
“We’ve got an awesome cast – bursting with energy and big personalities. We have fantastic vocalists – stunning and rich voices – they bring the vocal energy, they’re just incredible. I can’t wait to see them shine on stage. Not only is this production visually exciting but it has fun, upbeat numbers and a really important message. It’s heart-warming. You won’t leave the theatre questioning your existence – you’ll leave smiling, feeling joyful – so important -especially around Christmas.”
While Kinky Boots dazzles visually, it’s the music that gives it soul and that’s where Music Director Luke Baker steps in. An accomplished musician, educator, and musical theatre veteran with a Bachelor of Music from the University of Newcastle and over a decade of experience as a conductor, arranger, and performer, Luke’s musical direction is the backbone of this production. It’s also his debut Chookas production.
His credits span a range of local and regional theatre, including The Addams Family, and Shrek the Musical. Known for his collaborative approach and high musical standards, Luke has built a reputation as one of Newcastle’s most respected music directors.
For Luke, who saw the original Australian run of Kinky Boots in Sydney, the show’s score is irresistible.
“From a musical theatre perspective, I’ve always loved it,” he says. “The score is pure Cyndi Lauper - it’s pop-infused, full of 80s synths, and incredibly catchy. It’s the kind of music that makes you want to dance in your chair. But it also tells a really heartfelt story about community, self-expression, and being true to yourself.”
The musical demands both technical skill and emotional depth from its performers.
“One of my biggest focuses has been ensuring that the characterisation comes through in the singing as much as the acting,” Luke explains. “The show jumps between very different worlds, from upper-class London to a working-class factory, and we’ve worked hard to make those transitions feel authentic.”
Luke is leading a live 11-piece band, complemented by additional vocalists to enrich the sound.
“It’s a strong cast vocally, which makes my job easier,” he says.
“We had over 200 people audition, and the dance call was absolutely packed. It’s brought new faces into the company and created such a positive, creative buzz.”
Asked to pick a favourite number, Luke doesn’t hesitate. “‘Sex Is in the Heel’ and ‘Land of Lola’ - those are huge moments. They take you from the factory floor to this otherworldly space filled with colour and confidence. It’s a real musical journey.”
Above all, Luke hopes audiences walk away uplifted. “Whether you’re a lifelong musical fan or it’s your first time at the theatre, you’ll have a great time. The story’s message - that you can change the world when you change your mind - feels especially powerful right now.”
The glittering heart of Kinky Boots lies with its vibrant cast led by Tyler Chapman as the glamorous and fearless Lola, and Zac Smith as the determined but conflicted Charlie Price. Together their chemistry, charisma, and emotional range bring the story’s message of acceptance to life. They’re supported by Siddha Crossley as Lauren, Brynn Hulls as Nicola, and Chris Porters as Don and an incredible ensemble of actors, vocalists and dancers. For Tyler Chapman, stepping into Lola’s iconic heels has been both a dream role and a personal journey.
“Lola is such a complex, beautiful character,” he says. “She’s fierce, funny, and fabulous, but she’s also deeply human. Beneath the sequins and sass, there’s so much heart.”
Tyler’s rich performance background adds depth to his portrayal. A dynamic Newcastlebased performer since his teens, Tyler’s credits include Spring Awakening, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, Legally Blonde, and Catch Me If You Can. He’s also appeared on Season 10 of Australian Idol and toured Europe and the UK with Australian pop artist BEKS.
Playing Lola also comes with its challenges. “Aside from dancing in high heels and wigs for over two hours, the biggest challenge is telling both Lola’s story and Simon’s - her dedragged persona -simultaneously and truthfully. Simon’s experiences shape who Lola becomes, and Lola’s exterior strength gives Simon the courage to pursue change. Both narratives need to be communicated for the story’s message to really land.”
“Playing Lola means representing courage, the courage to live authentically and to stand tall even when the world tries to bring you down,” he shares. “It’s a role that demands honesty and empathy.”
He’s equally clear on why audiences shouldn’t miss this production.
“You’d be seriously missing out if you didn’t see Kinky Boots. It’s hilarious, chaotic, and heartfelt from start to finish. But more than that, it’s a show that can truly change minds. I remember seeing it in Sydney when I was 17 and it gave me a whole new perspective on who I wanted to be, both on stage and off. That’s the kind of heart this show brings.”
Opposite Lola is Zac Smith as Charlie Price, a role that grounds the show’s emotion in genuine, relatable humanity. For Zac, stepping into Charlie Price’s shoes is both a long-held dream and a personal connection.
“Charlie has been a dream role for years,” he says. “Tyler and I have joked about playing Charlie and Lola together since we first met back in 2019, so finally bringing that to life feels really special. It’s such an uplifting story, and Charlie’s journey from resistance to passion is one I truly connect with.”
“On the surface, Charlie’s a bit of a grump, but underneath he’s got a big heart. He’s awkward, determined, and genuinely funny when he lets himself relax. Watching him rediscover what lights him up again is one of my favourite parts of the show.”
Zac’s impressive background brings added depth to the role. An award-winning theatre director, actor, and designer, he has worked on more than fifty stage and film productions, including Little Shop of Horrors, Merrily We Roll Along, Legally Blonde, PUFFS, and The Father. His directing credits include acclaimed productions with Opera Hunter, Chookas Entertainment, and Newcastle Theatre Company, and his work has been recognised with multiple CONDA Awards.
When it comes to why audiences should see Kinky Boots, Zac is passionate.
“In a world constantly focused on our differences, Kinky Boots reminds us that kindness and acceptance matter. How someone else lives their life shouldn’t affect how you live yours and at the core, we’re all the same.”
As Kinky Boots prepares to hit the Civic stage, it’s clear this is more than just another production for Chookas Entertainment. It’s a celebration - of theatre, of self-expression, and of the incredible local talent that keeps Newcastle’s arts scene sparkling.
“We want people to recognise that a night out at the theatre can be for everyone,” Jody says. “It’s not just for theatre lovers - it’s for friends, families, work groups. Go out for dinner, grab a drink, see a show. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas together.”
“Kinky Boots is about finding your place in the world and having the courage to dance your way there.”
So, this December, slip into your fiercest stilettos and strut into the Civic Theatre for Kinky Boots - a dazzling, sequin-strewn celebration of laughter, love, and infectious pop beats that’ll have you dancing in your seat and singing all the way home!
KINKY BOOTS
Presented by Chookas Entertainment
Dates: Thursday 18–Sunday 21 December 2025
Venue: Civic Theatre Newcastle
Rating: PG-13 (themes and mild language)
Tickets: From $59
Book now: civictheatrenewcastle.com.au or call 02 4929 1977.
